Key Facts About Martin Luther and His Impact

Background and Early Life

• Born on November 10, 1483, in Eisleben, Germany.

• Originally studied law but became an Augustinian monk and later a theology professor at the University of Wittenberg.

The 95 Theses and the Protestant Reformation

• On October 31, 1517, Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church.

• Criticized the Catholic Church’s sale of indulgences (pardons for sins).

• This act sparked the Protestant Reformation, challenging Church authority.

Key Beliefs and Writings

• Justification by Faith Alone: Salvation comes through faith, not deeds.

• Sola Scriptura: The Bible is the ultimate authority in Christianity.

• Priesthood of All Believers: Every Christian can communicate directly with God.

• Translated the Bible into German, making it accessible to ordinary people.

• Authored key works like "On the Freedom of a Christian" and "The Babylonian Captivity of the Church."

Consequences and Conflicts

• 1521: Excommunicated by Pope Leo X.

• Summoned to the Diet of Worms and refused to recant, saying, “Here I stand, I can do no other.”

• Lived under protection in Wartburg Castle, where he translated the New Testament into German.

Impact on Religion and Society

• Led to the formation of Lutheranism and other Protestant denominations.

• Encouraged literacy and education through Bible translation.

• Weakened the power of the Catholic Church and influenced political changes in Europe.

• Inspired the Peasants' War (1524-1525) but later opposed the revolt.

Later Years and Death

• Continued to write and preach until his death on February 18, 1546, in Eisleben.

• His teachings reshaped Christianity and Western civilization.

Martin Luther.